Surfing is one of many popular activities in Santa Monica
IAN STALKER
Todd Mitsuhata says the Los Angeles-area oceanfront destination of Santa Monica is a fun, fun, fun sort of place for those eager to rekindle memories of 1960s southern California beach culture underscored by the likes of The Beach Boys songs.
Mitsuhata, director of global business developments for Santa Monica Travel & Tourism, says his destination has 3.5 miles of beach and surfing is popular, with lots of surfing schools awaiting those wanting to learn the sport.
“That’s the vibe — the beach, the weather,” Mitsuhata says. “We’re L.A.’s beach city.”
Santa Monica’s ties to the ocean are further demonstrated by the Santa Monica Pier, which dates back over a century, extends well into the ocean, and is home to restaurants and an amusement park. It’s the only pier on the west coast of the United States to have an amusement park.
The pier also marks the end of famed trans-U.S. highway Route 66.
Santa Monica is 21 square kms, with visitors easily able to find hotels that are within walking distance of the ocean. Indeed, those vacationing in Santa Monica will find they don’t need a car, with light rail service linking Santa Monica with downtown Los Angeles and those wanting to tour around Santa Monica welcome to flag down electric golf carts that can carry five passengers around town. Passengers are welcome to tip the operators for the free service.
Mitsuhata says it’s “very unheard of” for visitors to the Los Angeles area not to need a car to get around.
He says health-conscious visitors will be in their element in Santa Monica, able to visit a farmers’ market and juice bars, and opt for the likes of yoga on the beach or free yoga classes on the pier.
Santa Monica is also home to part of the South Bay Bicycle Trail, which Mitsuhata labels the “longest oceanfront bike path in the world,” stretching 22 miles.
Visitors will find some 41 hotels, with budget and family friendly properties available.
Mitsuhata also praises the “lively restaurant scene” his jurisdiction offers.
He says Santa Monica’s proximity to downtown Los Angeles means those staying in Santa Monica can easily visit such iconic Los Angeles draws as Hollywood.
Mitsuhata says the Covid situation in the area is “much improved,” although individual businesses can insist on visitors taking such safety measures as wearing masks.
Santa Monica tourism is “definitely rebounding,” although international visitations are still lagging, he reports.
Meanwhile, Mitsuhata suggests those wanting to visit Santa Monica shouldn’t restrict themselves to summer vacations, adding fall weather can be as enjoyable as summer weather and fall hotel rates are lower.
Winter Santa Monica weather is pleasant as well, he continues.
More information can be found at santamonica.com.
